Is the IB program worth it?
Is the IB Program really worth all the effort, and will the stress of this journey lead to something extraordinary in the end? As I navigate life as an IB student, this question echoes in my mind. Yes, there are benefits like higher college acceptance rates and a certain prestige that comes with the program, but I’ve come to realize those aren’t the main reasons to take on the challenge of the IB. Learning any skill is not just about the tangible rewards; sometimes, it’s about passion — like the joy of working with clay in ceramics or the thrill of strumming a guitar. You can master a skill that may not bring financial or social advantages, yet it fills your heart with happiness and gives you purpose. Reflecting on my time in the IB program, I understand that even when it feels like the tangible benefits are few, I am gaining so much more — lessons and experiences that are truly priceless.
One of the most profound changes I’ve seen in myself is my development as a writer. As a high school student, I’ve grown into an exceptional writer, and more importantly, I’ve become a well-rounded individual. There’s a sense of accomplishment in knowing that an IB student can tackle anything that comes their way. We’re not just required to excel academically; we’re also expected to thrive in extracurricular activities, volunteer our time, delve into philosophy, and grasp complex scientific concepts — all while mastering STEM, humanities, and other subjects. The education we receive is rich and varied, offering insights that go beyond a standard curriculum.
For instance, during a recent English lecture about Virginia Woolf’s book “A Room of One’s Own,” we explored the essential ideas surrounding women and literature, and how if women were to write, they need sufficient finance and privacy (we are talking about the 1920's). We were discussing just the opening paragraph of the book. Even the famous writer Jane Austin did not have “writer’s freedom”. She had to write under sheets in her common area so people would not find out and she was not financially independent on her own due to patriarchy at that time. It struck a chord with me. As a writer, I need that space to think and create, I need freedom, and yes, I need financial stability so I can write without the constant anxiety of unemployment and the need for materials. Woolf’s insights about needing a support system deeply resonate with me. I never thought of this before. Reflecting on these lessons, I feel an immense sense of gratitude for the privileges I have today — things I often take for granted. Such revelations emerge from our discussions, showing how the IB program has profoundly shaped my thinking and values.
In just these two years, I’ve discovered more about myself than I ever thought possible. The IB Program truly cultivates well-rounded individuals, demanding proficiency in both the arts and the sciences. Among the unique experiences I’ve encountered, teaching stands out. After volunteering to tutor children, I realized my love for teaching and how rewarding it is to help others learn. My dedication even earned me a presidential award, an honor that fuels my passion. This program deepened my fascination with biology and confirmed my aspiration to become a doctor. Each day, I tell myself that I must successfully complete the IB program to prepare for medical school and ultimately become a successful physician. At least I hope!
But many wonder: is the IB Program really that rigorous? Yes, it is undeniably demanding and unique. The curriculum feels like a whirlwind, akin to managing seven or eight college classes at once. There are moments when I find myself exhausted, even overwhelmed by the constant presence of the same classmates and the mounting workload. Picture this: juggling internal assessments for every single class (like a research paper for every subject), working on a TOK exhibition, writing a 4,000-word extended essay (another research paper), and preparing for multiple exams — all while maintaining high grades and meeting CAS requirements. Each class has its own set of challenges; we’re required to take at least one English, one foreign language, one math, one biology, TOK, history, and an elective. There’s even the option to self-study some subjects and still take exams, which adds another layer of complexity. You need at least 12 points from higher-level courses and nine from standard-level courses, totaling 24 points to pass. Balancing the expectations of teachers, parents, and the pursuit of that coveted IB diploma can be overwhelming. Yet, despite the exhaustion, the end result is that we become incredibly well-rounded individuals — skilled not only academically but also in finance, independence, public speaking, and, most importantly, critical thinking and effective writing. The list goes on and on. I’ve never written so much in my life except for when I was in the IB program.
And yes, I do have free time! While I juggle regular high school requirements alongside the rigors of the IB, I still carve out moments for myself. Some school activities are genuinely fun and surprisingly ungraded; they focus on discussions and how we express ourselves. We engage in larger projects rather than being bogged down by countless short assignments. We do have assignments, but not as many as normal students do. Each day, I feel immense gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the IB Program, but it’s essential to understand what you’re getting into.
Starting the IB journey can feel intimidating, and I remember being flooded with questions when I first joined. The most stressful part isn’t necessarily the program itself; it’s the uncertainty of what comes next. If anyone out there has questions or needs advice about the program, please reach out! I’m more than happy to share my experiences and insights. You can also ask reddit, I have gotten some pretty good advice from there from previous IB students.
At the end of the day, I wholeheartedly believe the IB Program is worth it. Anything that challenges you is valuable; it shapes your character and provides experiences that last a lifetime. I can confidently say my peers and I have developed incredible discipline. Yes, we have our moments of fun, but we also work tirelessly to become who we want to be in the future. Beyond the advantages like increased college acceptance and expanded opportunities, we build a resilience and versatility that can’t easily be broken. We look in the mirror to someone who we are proud of.
I admire how the IB program is structured; it’s incredibly organized, but understanding it — and by yourself — can be a daunting task at a young age. For example, I once thought I was a math whiz until I faced the challenges of higher-level math applications and interpretations, where I struggled with concepts like graph theory. That experience humbled me and led me to switch to the same class but standard level, but I remain committed to completing the program and earning my diploma.
It may seem overwhelming, and I know I can sound confusing even as I explain it, but once you grasp the essentials, I promise you’ll do great. Just be sure to do your research before diving in. While I believe the IB experience is worth it for everyone, it’s not the only path in life. Remember, if you don’t meet the program’s requirements, you won’t receive your diploma. So, if you’re currently an IB student, stay organized and give it your all. Good luck, everyone!
